[Cbass]

Well of course he meant something by it. This is an easy thing to believe when you live in an islamic country, seeing the most powerful country in the world, the US, unilaterally support an apartheid state, Israel, in their invasion and subsequent illegal 30 year occupation of several islamic nations, based on the premise of preemption. In case you haven't noticed, the rest of the world doesn't believe in wars of preemption.

Many prominent figures in the US gov't, media, and financial sector have jewish names, which further reinforces the opinion of these people. The very fact that it is taboo to criticize Israel, or the actions of a jewish group, under the threat of being labeled an anti-semite by the ADL, makes this point highly believable to non muslims.

It's an opinion that's not impossible to support. That doesn't mean that it's correct, and it's not my opinion, but it can be argued.

As for Chretien's response, or lack thereof, give me one good reason why the prime minister of Canada should fall all over himself to condemn the leader of a foreign nation for stating his beliefs, which can be argued and supported. It doesn't concern Canada, it has no impact on us, and I'm quite sure Jean has more important things to consider in his final days in office, namely the smooth transfer of power to Paul Martin, and pushing through all the legislation he wishes while he still can.